Meaning(s) of Otakar Zich's concept of the 'semantic image'

This paper deals with Otakar Zich's concept of the 'semantic image'. The author analyses Zich's aesthetical studies to observe changes in his interpretation of this concept over time. On the basis of the thinking regarding this concept, Zich began to differentiate between semiotic layers of a work of art. So, we can consider him the forerunner of Czech semiotic thinking, with regards to art theory and aesthetics.